I like the gradually increasing density of the spines across the frame. I know sharp focus through the entire DoF is more popular -- I think it's also appropriate here. Good job avoiding over-sharpening -- I think it would have been easy to ruin this.
Not exciting! Not eye appealing! Just a darn good 10 for this challenge. You can't get better than perfect photo with perfect meeting of challenge. PTL
Good macro, good crop, love the shadows. I do think it's a bit over exposed, making the green look washed out. (too sunny?) Still it's got lots of good POINTS. :) Justine.